Is meekness a weakness? ‘Meek and mild’ implies a willingness to go along with things. But a horse’s meekness after you put a bit in their mouth is more like ‘strength under control.’ Are trees similarly strong under control, without the need for a bit?

We’ve all been broken by loss, pain, shame, mistakes, ridicule… Is it true that light gets in where we are broken? Do we become stronger?  What is available if we let ourselves into the sadness and tears? Pastor Jody explores the blessing of those who mourn.

In October and November we’re examining The Beatitudes, in which Jesus describes people God blesses or favors. What does ‘poor in spirit’ mean? Who are these favored ones? Rev. Jody considers the story of the rich man and Lazarus (‘one whom God helps’).

James suggests what to do when things get dicey, but he doesn’t know about compassion fatigue or climate change. He says to cut off a body part that causes you trouble — not very practical!  Rev. Jody talks about what can we draw from James’ suggestions.

The dictionary says humility is a modest or low view of one’s own importance. How can one remain humble while not diminishing oneself?  Pastor Jody talks about humility, based on James 4 and Mark 9.

The creation story suggests that God created with a word. Modern people know how to use words to hurt.  We have the power to create reality with words. James tells us that we need to control our tongues.

In transactional relationships, each person expects something in return for an action. James points out that the Jesus-followers of his day pay attention to the rich at the expense of the poor who need their help. Pastor Jody considers our quid pro quos and how we can protect ourselves from this sort of relationship.

It’s comforting to know that we can’t make God love us more; nothing will separate us from the energy of love. Nevertheless, the book of James says that what we do matters. Rev. Jody Betten explores possibilities for how to behave that make a difference.

Some imagery in the Bible can seem archaic. It was written long ago in a different culture, yet it resonates with issues we face today.  What practices keep you focused?  Rev. Jody Betten explores practical and creative ways to keep on keeping on.

Dan Plasman muses on three Bible verses in which King Solomon prays for foreigners and outsiders whom he’s never met. This brief ancient prayer jarred loose memories of people who reminded him that God welcomes us no matter what.